California Universal Meals
California Department of Education
Free school breakfast and lunch at participating public schools
Free school breakfast and lunch for students at participating California public schools.
What you could receive
Free school breakfast and lunch at participating public schools
California’s Universal Meals Program requires participating public school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools serving TK–12 to provide a nutritionally adequate breakfast and lunch free of charge each school day to students who request a meal, regardless of household income. Households do not file a separate statewide application for the meals themselves.
Who may qualify
Not every requirement is listed here. Confirm the full rules with the program administrator.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
Important requirements
Purchase timing requirement is unclear. Confirm with the program administrator.
Timing / preapproval
Preapproval not required
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.